What will I study in this field?
You can combine study in History, Economics, Languages, Religion and Politics of the region in a personalized program. Specific course requirements and flexibility vary between programs, but most require a thesis focusing on a contemporary issue, drawing on study in all these disciplines. All programs require at least one regional language.
What do area specialists do in the Army?
Most serve as Foreign Area Officers (Functional Area 48), serving as attachés, security assistance officers, staff advisors on OSD/Joint/COCOM and operational staffs, and liaison officers to foreign militaries. Some may have the opportunity to teach at USMA or service schools.
What kinds of Master's Degree predominate in the field?
MA in Russian/East European/Central Asian Languages and Cultures, MA in Russian/East European/Central Asian Studies, MA in International Studies (with a focus on Russia/Eastern Europe/Central Asia)
What kinds of professionals study in a typical Russian Area Studies program?
Many graduate students are studying toward a Ph.D. with the intent of teaching at the University level. Others may be studying for an MA, in order to serve with a government agency such as the State Department or an Intelligence agency.
Top Russian/East European/Central Asian Programs for Army Officers:
- Harvard University - Davis Center for Russian and Eurasian Studies
- Stanford University - Center for Russian, East European & Eurasian Studies
- Indiana University - Russian and East European Institute
- Columbia University - The Harriman Institute
- University of Kansas - Center for Russian, East European & Eurasian Studies
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